Rothschild Bird (RO)

Herend Rothschild Bird (RO) – Hand-Painted Motifs and the Rothschild Legend

The Herend Rothschild Bird (RO) design features graceful songbirds, colorful insects, and a delicate vignette of twigs and leaves. This hand-painted design is one of the manufacturer’s most cherished creations. Each piece showcases a tree, a draped pearl necklace, and a finely gilded rim, all hallmarks of Herend’s artisanal porcelain from Hungary. Many connoisseurs regard the Rothschild Bird (RO) as the pinnacle of hand-painting on porcelain.

The story behind this pattern dates back to the 19th century and the illustrious Rothschild family of Europe. According to Herend’s legend, Baroness Rothschild once misplaced a pearl necklace in her garden in Vienna. Days later, it was discovered hanging from a tree, where birds appeared to be "playing" with it. In honor of the Rothschild family—who were early and important patrons of the manufactory—the design was named Rothschild Bird and entered production around 1860.

What makes Rothschild Bird (RO) Special

• Twelve distinct motifs: The RO design includes a suite of 12 bird-couple compositions, providing collectors with a variety of centerpiece motifs across plates, cups, and serving pieces.
• Nature details: Hand-painted butterflies and tiny insects adorn the white field, framing the birds’ perch. Often, a subtle pearl necklace is draped over the branch, paying homage to the legend.
• Borders & variants: In addition to the classic gilded edge, Herend offers the RO design with fish-scale borders in colors such as royal blue and light green for coordinated dinner and tea services.

Whether you’re completing a place setting or selecting a centerpiece, Herend Rothschild Bird (RO) beautifully combines romantic storytelling with meticulous craftsmanship. Browse our collection of available pieces below.